What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A comprehensive guide to understanding fire risk assessments, legal requirements, and the professional process that keeps your business safe and compliant.
What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying fire hazards and evaluating the risk to people in case of fire. It involves examining your premises to identify potential fire risks and implementing measures to reduce or eliminate them.
Core Purpose
The primary goal is to ensure the safety of everyone who uses your building by identifying hazards, evaluating risks, and implementing appropriate fire safety measures.
Is it Required by Law?
Legal Requirement
Yes, absolutely. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, you must carry out a fire risk assessment for all non-domestic premises.
This applies to all workplaces, commercial premises, and buildings where the public has access.
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Business owners and employers
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Landlords of commercial properties
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Occupiers of premises
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Anyone with control over premises
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Facility managers
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Unlimited fines
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Up to 2 years imprisonment
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Closure of premises
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Personal liability for damages
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Invalidated insurance claims
Can I Do One Myself?
Technically, yes - if you believe you are competent enough to do so. However, most businesses now choose to employ specialist companies like ourselves because:
Why Choose Professionals?
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Serious consequences for poor standards
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Complex legal requirements
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Need for specialized knowledge
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Peace of mind and professional indemnity
A competent person should have sufficient training, experience, knowledge, and other qualities to carry out a fire risk assessment correctly.
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Professional qualifications (IFSM, TFRAR)
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Relevant experience and training
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Knowledge of fire safety law
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Understanding of building construction
What is Involved in a Fire Risk Assessment?
Physical Inspection
A thorough physical inspection of the building to determine whether existing fire precautions are sufficient and identify any additional measures needed.
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Fire hazard identification
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Escape route evaluation
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Fire safety equipment check
Management Review
Review of fire safety management and how people will respond to an emergency and take appropriate action.
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Emergency procedures assessment
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Staff training evaluation
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Fire safety management systems
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Fire loss experience
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Sources of ignition
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Sources of fuel
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Sources of oxygen
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People at risk
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Means of escape
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Fire detection systems
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Alarm systems
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Fire fighting equipment
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Emergency lighting
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Fire safety signs
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Staff training records
When Should You Review Your Assessment?
While there are no specific rules for how regularly assessments should be reviewed, it's good practice to review them regularly and whenever circumstances change.
We recommend annual reviews as a minimum.
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Changes to building construction
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Significant increase in occupancy
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Changes to business activities
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After a fire incident
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New fire safety concerns identified
Recording Your Assessment
Recording Requirements
If you employ 5 or more people, you must record your fire risk assessment findings. However, recording is recommended for all businesses as it can save lives.
A proper record provides evidence of compliance and helps with ongoing fire safety management.
What You Receive From Us
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Comprehensive written report
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Action plan with priorities
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Timeline for addressing risks
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Ongoing support and advice
Get your comprehensive fire risk assessment from IFSM registered professionals.
Get Assessment QuoteFrom £225 - IFSM TFRAR Qualified
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Legal requirement under RRO 2005
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Must be conducted by competent person
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Regular review required
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Professional assessment recommended
Need a Professional Fire Risk Assessment?
Ensure your business compliance and safety with a comprehensive fire risk assessment from our IFSM registered fire safety experts.